The Miami Hurricanes are gearing up for the 2024 season with a revamped defensive tackle room that promises to be one of the best in the ACC. Despite the significant losses of Leonard Taylor, Branson Deen, and quality backups like Jared Harrison-Hunte and Thomas Gore, Miami’s aggressive approach in the transfer portal and top-tier recruiting has transformed this unit into a formidable force.
The departure of key players to the NFL Draft and transfer portal left a significant void, but the Hurricanes have responded by bringing in seasoned talent and promising young players. Miami’s defensive tackle position, long considered crucial to their success, has been bolstered by an influx of new faces, emphasizing maturity, toughness, and physicality—qualities that address the past inconsistencies in the lineup.
Simeon Barrow
Simeon Barrow is perhaps the most impactful addition to Miami’s defensive line. Coming from Michigan State, where he started 30 out of 34 games, Barrow’s impressive stats—110 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss, and 10.5 sacks—speak to his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Barrow’s strong run defense and ability to shed blocks make him an immediate upgrade over last year’s starters. His durability, having played 469 defensive snaps last season, is another plus for a unit that struggled with consistency in 2023.
CJ Clark
At 6’3″ and 305 pounds, CJ Clark brings the size and strength that Miami needs at the heart of their defensive line. Clark’s experience at NC State, where he recorded 73 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, and four sacks, showcases his ability to stop the run and pressure the quarterback. His presence as a true nose tackle will be pivotal in shoring up Miami’s interior defense, particularly against the run.
Marley Cook
Transferring from Middle Tennessee, Marley Cook adds a new dimension to Miami’s pass rush. With an 83.5 PFF grade, 67 QB pressures, and 15.5 tackles for loss over the last two seasons, Cook’s explosiveness off the line will be crucial in creating havoc in the backfield. His decision to join Miami over Ohio State highlights the program’s appeal and the potential he sees in this defensive unit.
Ahmad Moten
While the experienced transfers are expected to make an immediate impact, the Hurricanes also boast a crop of young talents ready to step up. Ahmad Moten, a third-year player standing at 6’3″ and 325 pounds, is poised for a breakout season. Coaches are excited about his potential and believe he’s ready to take the next step in his development.
Joshua Horton
Joshua Horton, a former North Carolina commit, is another player to watch. Despite battling injuries, Horton’s physical tools and potential make him a key figure in Miami’s rotation. If he can stay healthy, Horton could become a significant contributor.
Anthony Campbell
Anthony Campbell, standing at 6’7″ and 300 pounds, provides valuable depth. Although he didn’t play much last year, his size and strength make him an intriguing option in the rotation, especially in a physically demanding position like defensive tackle.
Miami’s commitment to recruiting high-caliber talent at defensive tackle is evident in their 2024 freshman class. Justin Scott, Artavius Jones, and Armondo Blount are blue-chip recruits who bring a mix of raw talent and big time potential to the program.
• Justin Scott is an athletic marvel, and despite some early nicks in summer conditioning, his size and attitude have drawn rave reviews. If he can translate that potential onto the field, he could be a special player for the Hurricanes and even contribute asa true freshman.
• Armondo Blount, one of the highest-rated players in his class, reclassified to join the Hurricanes early. His versatility to play both inside and outside provides Miami with multiple options on the defensive line akin to Bain and Mesidor. I don’t expect him to play much if at all this year, but getting him early into a college strength and conditioning program will be huge for his development and will have an opportunity to be in the rotation next year.
• Artavius Jones, a state champion powerlifter and multi-sport athlete, is another freshman with an incredibly high ceiling. His decision to choose Miami over Florida State speaks to the program’s growing reputation and his belief in its future. Described by some as “country strong” he has garnered comparisons to Jalen Carter. Jones is too good and strong to keep off the field, and I expect him to get some meaningful snaps as early as this season.
The 2024 season will be critical for evaluating the development of Miami’s defensive tackles. The blend of experienced transfers like Barrow and Clark with emerging talents such as Moten and Scott position the Hurricanes to be a force in the ACC. The focus on maturity, physicality, and depth in the defensive tackle room could be the key to Miami’s success, potentially differentiating them from other teams in the Conference and propelling them towards an ACC championship and a playoff spot.
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